Should You Screen Your Landlord? The Case for Background Checks Before Renting
Download MP3Episode Show Notes / Description:
- Introduction:
- When renting a property—whether residential or commercial—should you perform due diligence on your potential landlord?
- Landlords typically check your background, credit, and employment history before accepting tenants. But should you do the same for them?
- Why Background Checks Matter:
- Renting is a significant financial commitment. For example, paying $2,000 a month for rent totals $24,000 a year. You expect that value in return, but what if the landlord can't maintain the property or fails to pay the bills?
- Protect yourself from renting from a problematic or dishonest landlord.
- What to Investigate Before Renting:
- Ownership Verification:
- Perform a title search, deed search, and lien search to verify the landlord is the actual property owner and that the property is not encumbered with unpaid debts.
- Legal Issues:
- Check the landlord's civil court history for evictions or lawsuits, and look for any complaints filed against them with housing boards.
- Criminal Background:
- Investigate whether the landlord has a criminal record. For example, a landlord with a history of assault or fraud could pose risks to tenants.
- Building Compliance:
- Ensure there are no zoning violations or permit issues, particularly with critical systems like electrical and plumbing.
- Tenant Experience and Social Media:
- Review the landlord’s social media and look into the property’s reputation. Are there noise complaints, criminal activity, or issues with neighbors?
- Ownership Verification:
- Commercial Properties:
- For businesses renting commercial spaces, it’s equally important to know about the landlord's financial stability, ability to maintain the property, and whether the area is safe for business.
- Conclusion:
- Before committing to a lease, especially for one or two years, ensure you’ve done proper due diligence. This can help you avoid financial, legal, or lifestyle issues down the road.
- Call to Action:
- For more information on landlord tenant due diligence or background checks, visit ActiveIntel.com.
- Schedule a one-on-one live consultation with a licensed private investigator or other experts like commercial insurance brokers, real estate title examiners, or certified mediators. Visit ActiveHuman.com for more details.
